What it means to be a Balrog?
Hello creatures of Arda. I am Morzgur, a name given to me to symbolize “mor”, meaning gloom, and “zgur”, meaning wrath. A true representation of the fiery spirit that burns within me. Unlike the Elves, Dragons, Valar, and the disgraceful Maiar, I am a Balrog. We are twice the height of Man, with eyes that burn like coal, and wings encircled by flames.
Though I was created Maiar at the start, I have awoken in the Music of Ainur. We followed in the footsteps of Eru, God of Ainur, and emerged as superior beings, servants of he who speaks truth and brings strength to a fallen world, Melkor, the most powerful Ainur. From the shadows of his fortress, Utomno, he took the name Morgoth.
He gave us a greater purpose: to be the most feared warriors and steadfast servants. We did not follow him out of fright, but out of realization. We are here to reign under the rule of Morgoth and Lord of the Balrogs, Gothmog. I will not fail him; I will correct the corruption Eru has prompted and bring back the flame of revelation to the cold world.
Morgoth’s destruction of the two trees makes me feel triumphant and jubilant to call him my master. The Valar sang, but my master showed them who the divine ruler of Arda truly is. It showed that he is vigorous, untouchable, and a danger to all who stand against him.
The Trees are no more, and the flames have risen. This is only the beginning, and I know there’s more of our victory to come. It is time to join the dark side. All hail Morgoth!
Wow this is such a fascinating read!! I love how you captured both their power and the tragedy they brought with it. The way you portrayed their loyalty and almost worship to morgoth gives a cultish feel to it. Their physical description also contributed towards visualizing them as truly evil characters.
ReplyDeleteI love the imagery in the first paragraph, it makes it easier to imagine what a Balrog looks like as I read the book. Your writing also gives some clarity as to why some of the Balrogs may follow Melkor, that for some it was a choice and they were not forced. It shows the pleasure they take in following Melkor and aiding in his destruction of the world. I agree that it almost feels cult-like. This is very well written!
ReplyDeleteI love the dichotomy between the Orcs and the Balrogs. The Orcs, in my interpretation at least, are forced to work under Melkor by the fear of his power, while the Balrogs seem to enjoy what they do and love working with Melkor. Your description of the Balrogs really makes the scenes in the book that much clearer, especially your description of their "eyes like coal"
ReplyDeleteYou boast of fire, Morzgur, but flames burn quickly and only produce ash. You refer to your strength as servitude, but you have bound yourself to a master who will eventually fall, and you will be pulled down with him. Even though you celebrate the Trees' death, their light endures in the Silmarils, out of your grasp, and even in the hearts of people you despise. You are blinded by your fire, but my waters endure, wearing down stone, putting out flames, and enduring all destruction. Listen to me: your victory is a mirage, and it will be lost in the tide.
ReplyDeleteThis piece provides a great perspective on Melkor's dark rule, especially when you consider the somewhat opposing view of the orcs. It not only explains the origins of The Balrog, but also their individual motivations and beliefs when it comes to the path they all took as a race. Ultimately, you gave a great deal of insight on potentially could be the inner dialogue of a Balrog in following Melkor, believing him to be the honorable and true one, which makes for a great story element. Your post serves to enhance the source material, good work.
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